Season preview
BB&O Premier Division
BICESTER have signed ten players, but head coach Alec Smith says they are still very much in transition.
Smith said: “We still have a very young squad and are looking for a top four or five finish.”
IN: Gareth Evans (hooker, Alchester), Will Anns (Kettering), Ali Atashgah (Iran), John Behan (Sussex University), Steve Mansell (Abingdon), Craig White (unattached), Nick Kelly, Tom Hammond, Dave Behan, James Blake (all Bicester Colts).
OUT: Josh Chilman, Jack Horwood (both university).
LAST SEASON: 7th. PREDICTION: Top four.
Consolidation is the key for Chipping Norton after their disastrous 2010-11 campaign.
They have a new skipper in Geoff Flather, with Matt Dawson stepping up to vice-captain. Lock Ian Hancock is now assistant coach.
IN: Sam Jackson, Nick Gorton (both from junior ranks).
OUT: Justin Parker (scrum half, Richmond).
LAST SEASON: 12th (Southern Counties North). PREDICTION: Top four.
Littlemore return after a four-year absence, while Gosford All Blacks have No 8 Paul Nye back in their ranks.
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